How to Celebrate the Season Premiere of Boardwalk Empire? Enoch L. Johnson, Templeton Rye, and “The Nucky” cocktail.

Are you looking forward to tonight’s season premier of Boardwalk Empire on HBO? Same, same, us too. So to celebrate, we are getting into character with Rye whiskey – considered to be the original American spirit (George Washington’s distillery made it). Rye is the main ingredient in widely beloved Manhattan and Old Fashioned classic cocktails. It is known for its spicy character and clean, smooth finish. Want to add a modern twist to a classic mix? Try “The Nucky,” developed by Eric Hay of Wirtz Beverage, Illinois.

“The Nucky”

1 and ½ ounce Templeton Rye Whiskey

1 ounce Cherry Herring Liqueur

½ ounce Campari

¾ ounce fresh lemon juice

¼ ounce fresh orange juice

1 dash Angostura Bitters

Garnish: 2 Luxardo cherries, skewered

Construction: Build all ingredients in a shaker, add ice and shake hard for 8-10 seconds. Double strain into a double old fashioned glass with fresh ice.